News You Can Use

The Importance of Men’s Oral Health

According to recent surveys and studies, men are less likely than women to take care of their physical health. Their oral health is no exception. Men are less likely to schedule regular dental checkups and at times can neglect their oral health for years, only seeing a dentist when a problem occurs. The current statistics also indicate that men lose 5.4 teeth, on average, by the age of 72 with the statistic increasing to 12 if they smoke. Men are also statistically more likely to develop periodontal disease and oral/throat cancer.

Recent studies have also indicated that having increased periodontal (gum) disease leads to an increased risk for heart attacks and strokes. Because men are already more likely to suffer from heart attacks, many are also on medications that cause dry mouth. Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable but can lead to an increase in decay. Playing sports and smoking are also factors that influence men’s oral health as those who play sports tend to have more trauma to their teeth and mouth and those who smoke are at an even greater risk for gum disease and oral cancers.

There are a few things men can do to help prevent these from occurring, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Scheduling regular checkups with Smile Station Dental at least twice a year will help keep your oral health on track as well as allow us the opportunity watch for the warning signs of these problems before they become painful or need more expensive restorations.
Source: http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=m&iid=312&aid=1266


R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!